A Channel For Change

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New Memoir Explores Alliance of Channel Women Founding

Article by Brady Hicks, Channel Vision Magazine

In her new memoir, “A Channel for Change: How the Alliance of Channel Women (ACW) Took Root,” technology leader, author and advocate Nancy Ridge tells the story of how a grassroots initiative became a national force for women in the technology channel. 

Blending personal experience with broader insight into gender equity in technology, Ridge charts the rise of ACW, paralleling her own journey as a woman navigating leadership in the technology channel. The book explores the nonprofit’s evolution, with the global movement for women’s advancement in technology. In particular, she offers readers moments of recognition and motivation. Through candid storytelling and contributions from collaborators, Ridge shares inspiration, practical wisdom and a roadmap for women navigating professional and personal challenges. The result is an inspiring, fast-paced read packed with practical lessons, hard-won wisdom and a call to action for women professionals at every stage of their careers. 

“Each chapter unfolds in such a way that when a lesson emerged, I felt like it was just for me,” said Cheryl O’Donoghue, the founder of Aspire2STEAM, a nonprofit that provides scholarships to underserved women pursuing careers in STEAM. “Yet the beauty of this book is that each reader will walk away with their own personal moments of discovery thanks to the author and her bevy of ACW collaborators — a wise and wondrous group, indeed.” 

 “A Channel for Change: How the Alliance of Channel Women Took Root” is available now on Amazon.

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TESTIMONIALS

What People Are Saying

“A Channel for Change is a meaningful must-read for anyone who loves tech sales, channel, and uplifting women in business. Nancy Ridge’s passion for people and technology shines as she rallies channel leaders to ask, “Where are the women?” Instead of dwelling on the gap, she and her bold collaborators built a vibrant network, creating mentorship circles and workshops to help women balance work, family, and growing their business. Salespeople will find tips for building client connections through the community. Business owners will see a model for launching meaningful ventures. C-suite leaders will value the push for diversity that strengthens teams. Tech enthusiasts will love the blend of innovation and heart. This short book is a blueprint for starting something real and impactful. If you’re in sales or leadership or just love tech, grab this book to spark your change!”

Su Cook

“Nancy Ridge delivers compelling storytelling in her new book on the origins of the Alliance of Channel Women (ACW). Her detailed capture of the earliest days of this groundbreaking organization left me on the edge of my seat waiting for more. She makes you literally feel the courage, resilience, passion and vision of the ACW leadership team in its’ earliest days in creating an engaging, impactful force to amplify the visibility and voice of dynamic women leaders. Seeing how putting others first through mentoring and a highly collaborative approach led to stronger credibility and explosive growth was inspiring. This is a must read for anyone seeking a blueprint to get outside of their comfort zone, take a risk and create a real movement for change.”

Dan Albaum

“Having had the privilege of working alongside and knowing Nancy Ridge for three decades, I can confidently attest to her remarkable ability to unite people and inspire meaningful change. Authenticity has always been her trademark—whether she’s leading an organization, mentoring young women, or simply offering a helping hand. The energy and spirit that shine through in this book are the very same qualities I’ve witnessed in every interaction with her. Nancy is a trailblazer who invites us all to take ownership of our roles in creating equitable spaces, uplifting others, and driving progress. For those familiar with her, this work is a natural extension of everything she stands for: positivity, perseverance, and purpose. The book’s message is simple: when we lift each other up and work together, we become stronger as a whole. It’s a sentiment that deeply resonates with me and reflects Nancy’s lifelong commitment to this principle. For anyone seeking personal and professional growth, this book offers a practical blueprint filled with strategies for mentorship, collaboration, and networking.”

Nancy Schwartz

“Nancy Ridge’s A Channel for Change: How the Alliance of Channel Women Took Root is a masterful testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and unwavering determination. Through her deeply personal and professional journey, Ridge not only recounts the birth and evolution of the Alliance of Channel Women (ACW) but also offers a blueprint for creating meaningful change in male-dominated industries. Her story is one of resilience, generosity, and a fierce commitment to elevating others—a true inspiration for women everywhere.”

Norma Watenpaugh